Quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse that acts like a grain, but is actually seed(!). Perfect for salads, burgers, and casseroles, quinoa is our favorite protein-packed addition to any recipe. We know, we know, quinoa seems like an annoyingly trendy ingredient that doesn’t even taste good, but when cooked right, it’s actually a really tasty way to change up your carb routine. It’s more versatile than rice, even easier to cook, and gluten-free. Our handy guide on how to cook quinoa will have you making delicious quinoa in your sleep.

If you’re vegan or gluten-free, you’re likely well acquainted with how great quinoa is, as it’s one of very few complete proteins (meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids). Quinoa not only is a protein powerhouse, but it also absorbs so many different flavors and adds amazing texture to some of our meatless faves, like our meat lover’s veggie burger and our vegan taco salad. Perfect for endless riffing, quinoa also makes the best base for a filling dinner salad tossed with greens, vegetables, proteins, and your favorite salad dressing.

Quinoa is also one of the easiest ways to add a healthy bit of heartiness to any healthy dish, like our quinoa vegetable soup, ratatouille with chickpeas and quinoa, and quinoa-stuffed avocados. Having cooked quinoa on hand means you’re never too long from being able to make a quick, easy dinner, like quinoa fried rice. We love making up a big batch at the beginning of the week and using it for avocado breakfast bowls, Caprese quinoa bake, and one-pan chicken quinoa.